What should you know about chikungunya?

Most people with chikungunya develop a sudden fever with joint pain, often affecting the hands, wrists, ankles or feet. Muscle aches, headache, tiredness and a rash can also occur. Joint symptoms may continue after the fever settles. A similar illness can have different causes, so symptoms alone cannot confirm chikungunya; a clinician may consider recent travel, mosquito exposure and testing.

Rest, drink regularly and choose light meals if your appetite is reduced. Use only medicines that are suitable for you and follow the label or a clinician’s instructions; ask before taking anti-inflammatory medicines if dengue or another bleeding risk has not been excluded. Avoid mosquito bites while ill by using screens, covering skin and following local advice, because mosquitoes can acquire the virus from an infected person. A GP consultation can help assess symptoms and hydration.

Arrange medical advice promptly for a persistent or worsening fever, severe joint pain, repeated vomiting, a rash with swelling, or difficulty drinking. Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, trouble breathing, severe weakness, very little urine, unusual bleeding or severe abdominal pain. Babies, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with a long-term illness may need earlier assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit chikungunya or another infection, whether testing is useful, which pain-relief options are appropriate, and how to protect household members from mosquito bites.